What is one effect of light rain on the thermite welding process at a rail temperature of 60°F?

Light rain at a rail temperature of 60°F can create conditions that may affect the thermite welding process. While it is not necessarily enough to make welding impossible, it does introduce a need for immediate cooling measures to ensure safety and effectiveness.

When rain falls on the surface of the metal being welded, it can introduce moisture, which may lead to steam generation when the hot molten metal comes into contact with the water. This scenario could weaken the integrity of the weld and potentially cause spattering or improper fusion. Therefore, immediate cooling measures would be necessary to manage the temperature and reduce the risk of these detrimental effects.

In contrast, simply delaying the welding procedure or stopping the weld until conditions are clear does not address the critical issue of moisture interacting with the welding process. While these options may seem plausible, they do not provide a proactive approach to maintaining the quality and safety of the weld under those specific conditions.